AS ARSENAL kicked off in Monday night’s crucial match in the North London race for Champions League football, the ball went straight back to Aaron Ramsdale. He slipped to the ground as he launched the ball upfield. St James’ Park cheered sarcastically in unison. It was the first of many times those kitted out in black and white rose to their feet to applaud emphatically. Before defeats to Liverpool and Manchester City in their last two matches, Newcastle had won six on the bounce. No-one relishes visiting St James’ Park any more, and it was in this great theatre that Arsenal lost control of their European destiny for next season. 

Tottenham swallowed the Gunners alive in a one-sided North London derby last week, piling the pressure on Mikel Arteta’s side in their pursuit of Champions League football next season. Spurs’ narrow win over Burnley on Saturday ensured Arsenal couldn’t afford to drop any more points if they were to keep that race for top four in their own hands. 

But Eddie Howe has turned Newcastle’s fortunes round since taking over. They gave Arteta’s young side a lesson in high pressing and intensity, enjoying two thirds of possession in a fluid first-half display.